[IRP] Power Begets Power

[Lavi]

To say that the trip to Pherae was uneventful was putting it lightly. It was dreadfully dull in comparison to the ball itself. The border crossing itself was equally forgettable, as though the Marquess of Pherae totally disregarded the current climate between Lycia and Bern. Perhaps he trusted Bern to avoid his lands? It was impossible to say without speaking to the man himself.

The heavy travel took its toll on Cecily, especially since she had to mind her steed. Before everything happened, she would typically travel by carriage and even that proved exhausting on long journeys. Cecily knew she was slowing everyone down, but she did not apologize or make concessions. Instead, she continued to trudge on.

Only when Castle Pherae was in view did Cecily's exhaustion seemed to catch up with her.

"Finally..." she sighed. "If all goes well, Lord Elbert will be hospitable. He and I parted cordially some years past, at least."

The sun was beginning to set as the cohort of travelers approached the gate, scarred by age, where its keeper made his presence known.

"State your business," the gatekeeper demanded.

Cecily guided her horse over to the gatekeeper's side, being sure that her face is visible to the dusk's demand for lighting.

"If you will excuse the absence of notice, please inform Lord Elbert IV that Lady Cecilia of Laus is here to meet with him," Cecily replied, masking her weariness as best she could.

The gatekeeper was visibly taken aback by the words, but quickly regained his composure.

"I will pass the message forward. Please wait here for escort, milady," the gatekeeper responded.

Of course, the message would not be taken directly to the lord of Pherae. It will be passed on to the general in command of the castle first, who will ascertain their identities before allowing the lord to be informed of their presence. Unless circumstances have changed for the worse, it should be General Trott who is commanding the keep.

As it turns out, her memory did not fail her as the man did eventually approach the group as Cecily expected.

"General Trott, I apologize for not sending advance notice of my arrival, but I hope you understand that the present times are just as unprecedented," Cecily greeted the man.

"They are, just as you still call yourself of Laus after your public denouncement by the your marquess," Trott replied.

"I need no reminder, but I hope it does not sour my standing with Lord Elbert," Cecily said.

"We remember Laus' history. The marquess sees it merely as political wrangling," Trott said.

"I am glad. Shall we speak in more comfortable surrounds?" Cecily suggested, gesturing to her companions as a reminder.

"Indeed," Trott nodded.

Pheraean soldiers and manservants escorted them in, prepared to stable their horses and escort them to the guest rooms. As the necessities are handled, Cecily gazed upon the architecture of Castle Pherae, silhouetted by the setting sun. She never felt closer to home. But home is still far away.